FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to vehicle cleaning systems and devices,
and, more specifically, to telescoping devices for cleaning a vehicle surface.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0002] Various cleaning devices for vehicles are known, including nozzles that clean windows,
headlights, and other vehicle surfaces. Exterior cameras and driver assistance sensors
are increasing in popularity, and many vehicle models have these as standard or optional
equipment. Due to the impact of environmental elements to these cameras and sensors,
these systems can experience a loss in effectiveness. Said nozzles can be used to
clean the lenses of these systems. Self-driving or autonomous vehicles require an
even greater number of cameras and sensors for navigation and guidance, driving and
safety, and internal performance.
[0003] Some of said cleaning devices are telescopic, and include a spraying element that
is telescopically extendable to an active or operating position. The cleaning device
is in fluid communication with a source of pressurized cleaning fluid, and the spraying
element can be configured to extend once fluid pressure exceeds a predetermined amount.
When retracted or inactive, the nozzle device can be concealed with a part of the
vehicle structure.
[0004] Conventional designs for telescopic cleaning devices that use the pressure of the
cleaning fluid for extension movement of the spraying element require a fluid valve
establishing fluid communication with the spraying element once the cleaning device
is fully extended. The valves are placed proximally of the spraying element, requiring
an elongated space to accommodate the device. Such conventional designs are bulky
due to the number of parts required for controlling movement and fluid flow. In newer
vehicle designs requiring a greater number of cameras and sensors, such as for self-driving
or autonomous vehicles, space constraints make conventional telescopic nozzle devices
undesirable and impractical. A telescopic device for cleaning a vehicle surface is
knowm from
FR 2836842 A1.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] A telescoping device for cleaning a vehicle surface is provided herein. The telescoping
device includes for cleaning a vehicle surface a housing having a proximal inlet end
and a distal outlet end, an extendable piston arranged within the housing and moveable
from an inactive position to active position at a predetermined extension pressure,
and a return spring biasing the piston toward the inactive position. The piston includes
a piston body, a supply tube coupled with the piston body at a proximal end of the
supply tube, a cleaning fluid outlet provided at a distal end of the supply tube,
wherein the at least one cleaning fluid outlet is retracted into the housing in the
inactive position and the at least one cleaning fluid outlet is extended from the
housing in the active position, and a check valve coupled with the piston body for
movement therewith and comprising a cracking pressure that is greater than the predetermined
extension pressure.
[0006] In another embodiment, the telescoping device is incorporated in a vehicle having
a vehicle surface.
[0007] In yet another embodiment, the telescoping device is incorporated in a system for
cleaning a vehicle surface, the system including a fluid reservoir and a pump in fluid
communication with the fluid reservoir and with the telescoping device.
[0008] The invention provides for a telescoping device for cleaning a vehicle surface, comprising:
a housing having a proximal inlet end and a distal outlet end;
an extendable piston arranged within the housing and moveable from an inactive position
to active position at a predetermined extension pressure, the piston comprising:
a piston body defining a hollow interior;
a supply tube coupled with the piston body at a proximal end of the supply tube;
at least one cleaning fluid outlet provided at a distal end of the supply tube, wherein
the at least one cleaning fluid outlet is retracted into the housing in the inactive
position and the at least one cleaning fluid outlet is extended from the housing in
the active position; and
a check valve coupled with the piston body for movement therewith and comprising a
cracking pressure that is greater than the predetermined extension pressure; and a
return spring biasing the piston toward the inactive position.
[0009] The check valve comprises at least one orifice in fluid communication with the hollow
interior of the piston body and an elastomeric sleeve surrounding the at least one
orifice.
[0010] The check valve comprises a valve body having the at least one orifice, and the elastomeric
sleeve over the valve body.
[0011] The valve body is coupled with the piston body for movement therewith.
[0012] The valve body is coupled with a proximal end of the piston body and comprises a
hollow tip projecting into the hollow interior, the hollow tip comprising the at least
one orifice and supporting the elastomeric sleeve thereon.
[0013] According to a preferred embodiment the hollow tip comprises radially opposing orifices.
[0014] According to a preferred embodiment the elastomeric sleeve is sealed at a proximal
end thereof to the hollow tip of the valve body.
[0015] According to a preferred embodiment the elastomeric sleeve has a proximal end sealed
to the valve body and distal end unsealed to the valve body.
[0016] According to a preferred embodiment the supply tube is retracted into the housing
in the inactive position and wherein the distal end of the supply tube is substantially
flush with the distal outlet end of the housing in the inactive position.
[0017] According to a preferred embodiment the distal outlet end of the housing is partially
closed by a distal end wall having an opening therein, the supply tube being extendable
and retractable through the opening in the distal end wall of the housing, and the
distal end of the supply tube is closed by a distal end wall, and the distal end wall
of the supply tube is substantially flush with the distal end wall of the housing
in the inactive position.
[0018] According to a preferred embodiment the at least one cleaning fluid outlet comprises
an aperture in the supply tube, wherein the aperture is disposed proximally of the
distal end wall of the supply tube.
[0019] According to a preferred embodiment the piston body and the supply tube are integrally
formed.
[0020] According to a preferred embodiment the device further comprises at least one O-ring
seal between the piston body and the housing.
[0021] According to a preferred embodiment the device further comprises an end cap on the
proximal inlet end of the housing.
[0022] According to a preferred embodiment the end cap comprises an inlet port fluidly connectable
to a source of pressurized cleaning media.
[0023] According to a preferred embodiment a proximal end of the check valve abuts the end
cap in the inactive position.
[0024] According to a preferred embodiment the device further comprises a cover arranged
over a distal end of the supply tube.
[0025] According to a preferred embodiment the cover comprises a Class A surface of a vehicle.
[0026] According to a preferred embodiment the return spring is positioned between the distal
outlet end of the housing and the piston body, and surrounds the supply tube.
[0027] According to a preferred embodiment the supply tube has an inner diameter less than
an inner diameter of the hollow interior of the piston body.
[0028] According to a preferred embodiment the at least one cleaning fluid outlet comprises
a radial aperture in the supply tube.
[0029] The invention further provides for a vehicle comprising:
a vehicle surface; and
a telescoping device according to the invention.
[0030] According to a preferred embodiment the telescoping device comprises a cover arranged
over a distal end of the supply tube, the cover comprising a Class A surface of the
vehicle.
[0031] The invention also provides for a system for cleaning a vehicle surface comprising:
a fluid reservoir;
a pump in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir; and
a telescoping device according to the invention.
[0032] According to a preferred embodiment the device further comprises a first tubing coupling
the pump with the fluid reservoir and second tubing coupling the pump with the telescoping
device.
[0033] As described further below, embodiments of the telescoping device, vehicle, and system
disclosed herein provide for an improved cleaning of surfaces, such as cameras, sensors,
headlights or headlamps, windshield, window, other vehicle surfaces, or other non-vehicle
surfaces. The telescoping device is compact, and can telescope between an inactive
or non-spraying position and an active or spraying positon.
[0034] These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent
from the following description of particular embodiments, when viewed in accordance
with the accompanying drawings and appended claims.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035]
Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning device in an inactive state according
to one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the cleaning device of Figure 1 in an active
state;
Figure 3 is an exploded view of the cleaning device of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a schematic view of a vehicle comprising the cleaning device of Figure
1 according to another embodiment of the invention, with the cleaning device in an
inactive state;
Figure 5 is a schematic view of a system for cleaning a vehicle surface comprising
the cleaning device of Figure 1 according to yet another embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning device in an inactive state according
to yet another embodiment of the invention; and
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning device in an inactive state according
to still another embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0036] A telescoping device provided for cleaning a vehicle surface is described below.
As will be appreciated from the description here, the telescoping device has multiple
applications, but is generally used as a cleaning device for vehicle surfaces, such
as cameras, sensors, headlights or headlamps of vehicles, and may be provided on a
vehicle in concealed fashion, for example within the bumper or panel of a vehicle.
It is to be understood that the telescoping device may be used to clean other surfaces,
such as a windshield, window, other vehicle surfaces, or other non-vehicle surfaces.
Such a telescoping device can be provided in a system or vehicle, and can telescope
between an inactive or non-spraying position and an active or spraying positon. At
least some embodiments of the telescoping device provided herein functions to telescope
to the active position prior to spraying. This can be accomplished through the various
elements thereof, as described below, including a check valve that is carried by a
moveable piston, where the check valve will open after the piston has extended to
the active position. To provide a compact cleaning device that takes up minimal space
within the vehicle, the check valve can be integrated into the piston, and the piston
can retract fully, or substantially fully, into a housing in the inactive position.
[0037] In Figures 1-3, a telescoping device according to a first embodiment of the invention
is illustrated and generally designated 10. The telescoping device 10 includes a housing
12, a piston 14 arranged within the housing 12, at least one cleaning fluid outlet
16, and a check valve 18 (or non-return valve). The piston 14 is extendable, and can
move from an inactive position to active position at a predetermined extension pressure,
described in further detail below. The cleaning fluid outlet 16 and check valve 18
can be carried by, coupled with, or otherwise moveable with the piston 14. In moving
to the active position, the cleaning fluid outlet 16 telescopes relative to the housing
12 to an extended position, an example of which is shown in Figure 2, and once the
cleaning fluid outlet 16 has extended, the check valve 18 opens, all of which is described
in greater detail below. In the active position, the cleaning device 10 sprays a cleaning
media or cleaning fluid to clean a vehicle surface. The term "cleaning media" or "cleaning
fluid" encompasses substances that are capable of flowing, including liquid, gas,
e.g. air, and mixtures thereof.
[0038] The housing 12 includes a proximal inlet end 20 and a distal outlet end 22. The housing
12 can include a peripheral wall 24 elongated along a longitudinal device axis X,
with the piston 14 configured for linear reciprocal movement along the axis X. The
peripheral wall 24 can be annular, as shown herein, and comprise one continuous sidewall.
In other embodiments, the peripheral wall 24 can be non-annular, and/or can comprise
a plurality of sidewalls. The inlet and outlet ends 20, 22 of the housing 12 can be
at least partially open. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal outlet end 22 of
the housing 12 can be partially closed by a distal end wall 26 having an opening 28
therein. Optionally, the housing 12 can be provided with mounting brackets or other
attachment features (not shown) for installation on a vehicle.
[0039] The piston 14 includes a piston body 30 defining a hollow interior 32, a cleaning
supply tube 34 coupled with the piston body 30, the at least one cleaning fluid outlet
16, and the check valve 18, which can be coupled with the piston body 30 for movement
therewith.
[0040] The at least one cleaning fluid outlet 16 can be provided at a distal end 36 of the
supply tube 34. Optionally, two or more cleaning fluid outlets 16 can be provided
at the distal end 36 of the supply tube 34. A proximal end 38 of the supply tube 36
can be formed with, or otherwise connected to, the piston body 30. In the illustrated
embodiment, the piston body 30 and the supply tube 34 are integrally formed, such
as by plastic injection molding.
[0041] The supply tube 34 can include a peripheral wall 40 elongated along the device axis
X, with the supply tube 34 configured for linear reciprocal movement along the device
axis X along with the piston body 30. The peripheral wall 40 can be annular, as shown
herein, and in other embodiments, the peripheral wall 40 can be non-annular. The supply
tube 34 can be open at its proximal end 38 to the hollow interior 32 of the piston
body 30 and can be open or closed at its distal end 36. In the illustrated embodiment,
the distal end 36 is closed by a distal end wall 42. The at least one cleaning fluid
outlet 16 can optionally be formed through the peripheral wall 40 as shown, or through
the distal end wall 42 in other embodiments of the cleaning device 10.
[0042] The supply tube 34 can have an inner diameter 44 as defined by the peripheral wall
40. The inner diameter 44 of the supply tube 34 can be less than an inner diameter
46 of the piston body 30 defined by the hollow interior 32.
[0043] The at least one cleaning fluid outlet 16 can be any type of cleaning fluid outlet,
suitable for the purposes described herein, including the spraying or dispensing of
cleaning fluid to a vehicle surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning fluid
outlet 16 comprises a radial aperture 48 provided in the distal end 36 of the supply
tube 34, though the number and disposition of apertures can vary in other embodiments
of the invention. The aperture 48 can have any shape and be provided in any form,
including, but not limited to, a slot, slit, opening, etc., in the supply tube 34.
As shown, the aperture 48 can be a slot- or slit-shaped aperture in the peripheral
wall 40 of the supply tube 34, and can be disposed proximally of the distal end wall
42.
[0044] The at least one cleaning fluid outlet 16 comprising the radial aperture 48 can be
configured to direct a spray of cleaning fluid generally radially with respect to
the longitudinal device axis X. Alternatively, the at least one cleaning fluid outlet
16 can be configured to direct a spray of cleaning fluid generally axially along the
device axis X, generally tangentially relative to the device axis X, at an angle between
the radial, axial, and/or tangential directions, or in multiple directions relative
to the device axis X.
[0045] The at least one cleaning fluid outlet 16 can be configured to produce various spray
patterns, i.e. a static fan spray, a static jet spray, etc. As shown herein, the aperture
48 of the cleaning fluid outlet 16 can be molded or otherwise formed in the supply
tube 34 for a static fan spray. Alternatively, a spray-building element such as a
chip or eyeball can be provided at the cleaning fluid outlet 16 for achieving other
spray patterns, such as a jet spray, an oscillating fan spray or a combination jet
and fan spray. Alternatively, instead of producing a spray of cleaning fluid, the
at least one cleaning out 16 can dispense a stream of cleaning fluid, or otherwise
disburse cleaning fluid toward the vehicle surface to be cleaned.
[0046] The check valve 18 allows ingress of cleaning fluid into the supply tube 34 once
the fluid pressure exceeds a predetermining cracking pressure, as described in more
detail below. In the embodiment shown herein, the check valve 18 includes at least
one orifice 50 in fluid communication with the hollow interior 32 of the piston body
30 and an elastomeric sleeve 52 surrounding the at least one orifice 50. Other embodiments
of the check valve 18 are possible, including, but not limited to, a ball check valve,
a diaphragm check valve, a duckbill check valve, a swing check valve, a lift-check
valve, etc.
[0047] To keep the cleaning device 10 small and compact, the check valve 18 is integrated
into the piston 14. As shown herein, the check valve 18 can be provided at a proximal
end of the piston 14, in line with the supply tube 34. In other embodiments, the check
valve 18 can be carried elsewhere on the piston 14, such as concentrically within
the supply tube 34. Yet other locations of check valve integration with the piston
14 are possible.
[0048] In one embodiment, the check valve 18 comprises a valve body 54 having the at least
one orifice 50. The elastomeric sleeve 52 is received over the valve body 54 to overlie
the at least one orifice 50. In at least the inactive position, the check valve 18
is closed and the at least one orifice 50 is sealed by the sleeve 52. When the check
valve 18 is open, the at least one orifice 50 can be in fluid communication with the
supply tube 34, directly or via the hollow interior 32 of the valve body 30. A fluid
passage 56 can be formed in the valve body 54 in fluid communication with the at least
one orifice 50, and provides a pathway for cleaning fluid through the valve body 54.
[0049] The check valve 18 can comprise more than one orifice 50. In the illustrated embodiment,
multiple orifices 50, for example two orifices 50, are provided in the valve body
54, through the number of orifices 50 can vary in other embodiments of the invention.
The orifices 50 can be radially spaced about the valve body 54, relative to the longitudinal
device axis X. In embodiments with two orifices 50 as shown, the orifices 50 can be
disposed on opposing sides of the valve body 54, i.e. can be diametrically opposed.
The orifices 50 can have any shape and be provided in any form, including but not
limited to slots, slits, apertures, openings, etc., in the valve body 54.
[0050] The valve body 54 can comprise a hollow tip 58 projecting into the hollow interior
32 of the piston body 30. The tip 58 of the valve body 54 can include the at least
one orifice 50 and can support the elastomeric sleeve 52 thereon. As shown, the tip
58 can include radially opposing orifices 50. The fluid passage 56 can extend from
an inlet at a proximal end 60 of the valve body 54 and through the tip 58 to the orifices
50, which can define the outlet of the fluid passage 56. A distal end 62 of the valve
body 54 can be closed, with the orifices 50 being provided proximally of the closed
distal end 62. The tip 58 can define an outer surface or sealing surface 64 on either
side of orifices 50 against which the sleeve 52 rests in the inactive position. The
valve body 54 can include a flange 66 at the proximal end 60. The flange 66 can be
continuous or non-continuous about the valve body 54, and can project substantially
radially outwardly.
[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the valve body 54 is coupled with the piston body
30, and can more specifically be coupled with a proximal end 68 of the piston body
30. The valve body 54 can be coupled with the piston body 30 using any suitable mechanical
coupling or other interlock. In other embodiments, the valve body 54 can be integrally
formed with the piston body 30, such as by plastic injection molding.
[0052] In one embodiment, valve body 54 can be coupled with the piston body 30 by a snap
fit coupling or joint. The valve body 54 can comprise a protruding part, which is
snap fit with a mating component on the piston body 30; alternatively, the piston
body 30 can comprise the protruding part that is snap fit with a mating component
on the valve body 54. In one embodiment, the protruding part is a protrusion 72 on
an outer surface of the valve body 30, and can comprise a hook, stud, lug, bead, or
other engagement element. The protrusion 72 catches in a depression, undercut, or
slot 74 in the piston body 30 forming the mating component. The piston body 30 may
be deflected briefly during the joining operation, as the valve body 54 slides into
place within the hollow interior 32 of the piston body 10. The number and location
of protrusions 72 and slots 74 can vary; optionally two protrusions 72 and slots 74
are provided and can be can be diametrically opposed on the valve body 54 and piston
body 30, respectively.
[0053] The sleeve 52 can be an elastomeric sleeve that is radially expandable under pressure
to permit flow of cleaning fluid through the check valve 18, and is radially contractible
under decreasing pressure to prevent flow of cleaning fluid through the check valve
18. In illustrative embodiment, the sleeve 52 is manufactured from an elastomeric
material that is both resilient and flexible. In one example, the elastomeric material
can be silicone rubber or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene methylene rubber).
[0054] The sleeve 52 can be tubular and includes a proximal end 76 and a distal end 78.
The proximal end 76 of the sleeve 54 can be sealed to valve body 54, and more specifically
can be sealed about the tip 58 of the valve body 54. The proximal end 76 of the sleeve
52 can comprise a flange 80 projecting substantially radially outwardly relative to
the device axis X. The flange 80 can be continuous or non-continuous about the sleeve
52. The flange 80 is held between the piston body 30 and the distal-facing shoulder
82 on valve body 54. The distal end 78 of the sleeve 52 can be free, i.e. unattached
or unsealed to the valve body 54, to allow the sleeve 52 to flex resiliently to an
expanded or stressed state.
[0055] The distal end 78 of the sleeve 52 can extend beyond the distal end 62 of the valve
body 54, and project into the hollow interior 32 of the piston body 30. This overhang
ensures sealing of the sleeve 52 to the valve body 54, including for a variety of
tolerance conditions. The overhanging distal end 78 also directs cleaning fluid flow
in a direction parallel to the longitudinal device axis X, which in the illustrated
embodiment is coincident with a longitudinal axis of the sleeve 52, reducing turbulent
flow and encouraging laminar flow as the cleaning fluid exits the valve body 54 and
passes through the piston body 30.
[0056] The check valve 18 can have a predetermined cracking pressure, i.e. a minimum differential
upstream pressure between the valve inlet, defined at the proximal end 60 of the valve
body 54 in the illustrated embodiment, and the valve outlet, defined by the at least
one orifice 50 in the illustrated embodiment, at which the check valve 18 will operate.
The predetermined cracking pressure can be specified by the sleeve 52, which expands
under pressure to permit flow of cleaning fluid through the check valve 18. The cracking
pressure of the sleeve 52 can be at least partially determined by the hardness of
the material for the sleeve 52, for example with materials having higher shore durometer
having higher cracking pressure. The cracking pressure can range, for example, from
3-6 PSI.
[0057] Figure 1 shows the sleeve 52 in its normal, relaxed state, i.e., with the telescoping
device 10 in the inactive position, while Figure 2 shows the sleeve 52 in its expanded
or stressed state, i.e. with the telescoping device 10 in the active position, or
as the telescoping device 10 transitions toward the active position. The sleeve 52
is normally contracted onto the tip 58 of the valve body 54, against the sealing surface
64, and is resiliently urged to an expanded state by fluid pressure exceeding the
cracking pressure. The sleeve 52 responds to an increase in pressure to or above the
cracking pressure by flexing away from the sealing surface 64, allowing cleaning fluid
to flow through the orifices 50.
[0058] As disclosed above, the piston 14 is moveable between an inactive position, an example
of which is shown in Figure 1, in which the supply tube 34 is retracted relative to
the distal outlet end 22 of the housing 12, and an active position, an example of
which is shown in Figure 2, in which the supply tube 34 is extended relative to the
distal outlet end 22 of the housing 12. In the active position, the at least one cleaning
fluid outlet 16 can face a surface to be cleaned, for instance the lens or cover of
a vehicle camera, sensor, or headlight. In the illustrated embodiment, the supply
tube 34 is retracted into the housing 12 in the inactive position, and the supply
tube 34 is extended from the housing 12 in the active position. More particularly,
the supply tube 34 can be extendable and retractable through the opening 28 in the
distal end wall 26 of the housing 12.
[0059] Optionally, the supply tube 34 can retract fully, or substantially fully, into the
housing 12 in the inactive position. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal end
36 of the supply tube 34 is substantially flush with the distal outlet end of the
housing 12 in the inactive position. With this arrangement, the cleaning fluid outlet
16 lies inside the housing 12 in the inactive position, which can protect the cleaning
fluid outlet 16 and supply tube 34 when not in use.
[0060] More particularly, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the distal end wall 42
closing the distal end 36 of the supply tube 34 can be substantially flush with or
otherwise form a contiguous or continuous surface with the distal end wall 26 of the
housing 12 in the inactive position. A small discontinuity in the otherwise contiguous
or continuous surface formed by the distal end walls 26, 42 in the inactive position
may, for example, occur at the opening 28 in the distal end wall 26 of the housing
12 to provide clearance for sliding movement of the supply tube 34 through the opening
28 as the supply tube moves between the inactive and active positions. Other small
breaks or discontinuities are also possible while still forming an overall contiguous
or continuous surface by the retraction of the supply tube 34 into the housing 12
in the inactive position.
[0061] Alternatively, a portion of the supply tube 34 can remain outside the housing 12,
and more particularly outside the distal end wall 26 of the housing 12, in both the
inactive and active positions. In one example (not shown), the distal end 36 of the
supply tube 34, including the cleaning fluid outlet 16, can remain outside the housing
12, and more particularly outside the distal end wall 26, in both the inactive and
active positions.
[0062] The piston 14 can be biased to the inactive position by a return spring 84, such
as a coil spring. The return spring 84 can be positioned between the housing 12 and
the piston 14, and can more specifically be positioned between the distal end wall
26 of the housing 12 and the piston body 30 of the piston 14. The distal end wall
26 of the housing 12 can include a collar 86 surrounding the opening 28, and a first
end of the spring 84 can be received between the housing peripheral wall 24 and the
collar 84. The piston body 30 can include a shoulder 88 that extends radially toward
the peripheral wall 24, and a second end of the spring 84 can be received between
the shoulder 88 and the housing peripheral wall 24.
[0063] A piston sealing member can be provided between the piston 14 and the housing 12
for sealing the interface between the piston 14 and housing 12, and preventing leaks
at the distal outlet end 22 of the housing 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the
piston sealing member is pair of O-ring seals 90 on the piston body 30 in sealing
engagement with an inner side of the peripheral wall 24 of the housing 12. Alternatively,
one O-ring seal or more than two O-rings seals can be provided. The piston body 30
can include annular grooves 92 shaped to partially receive the O-ring seals 90.
[0064] Optionally, the supply tube 34, or another portion of the piston 14, can be keyed
with the housing 12 to maintain alignment between the piston 14 and housing 12, and
prevent torsion or twisting of the supply tube 34 as it extends and retracts. In the
illustrated embodiment, the supply tube 34 includes ribs 94 and the distal outlet
end 22 of the housing 12 includes slots 96 around the opening 28 that receive the
ribs 94 on the supply tube 34. The keyed coupling (or keyed joint) provided by the
ribs 94 and slots 96 ensure that the supply tube 34, and piston 14, smoothly translate
along the longitudinal device axis X without twisting within the housing 12. The ribs
94 on the supply tube 34 can be elongated to maintain engagement between the ribs
94 and slots 96 in both the retracted and extended positions of the supply tube 34.
[0065] The telescoping device 10 can optionally comprise a cover 98 coupled with or otherwise
provided on the distal end 36 of the supply tube 34. The cover 98 can comprise a trim
component of a vehicle and can include a Class A surface 100, i.e. a visible exterior
surface of the vehicle. By virtue of its provision on the supply tube 34, the cover
98 moves with the extendable piston 14 between the inactive and active positions.
In the inactive position, the cover 98 can be flush with or otherwise form a contiguous
or continuous surface with the vehicle. In particular, the Class A surface 100 of
the cover can be flush with or otherwise form a contiguous or continuous surface with
another Class A surface of the vehicle. In the active position, the cover 98 is extended
outwardly from the vehicle surface and cleaning fluid outlet 16 can face a surface
to be cleaned, for instance the lens or cover of a vehicle camera, sensor, or headlight.
[0066] The cover 98 can be coupled with or otherwise provided on the supply tube 34 using
any suitable connection. In one embodiment, cover 98 can be coupled with the supply
tube 34 by a snap fit coupling or joint. In the illustrated embodiment, slotted arms
102 project from a surface of the cover 98 opposite the Class A surface 100 and are
snap fit with corresponding protruding parts 104 on the supply tube 34, such can comprise
hooks, studs, lugs, beads, or other engagement elements.
[0067] With the cover 98 being flush with or otherwise form a contiguous or continuous surface
with the vehicle, the housing 12 can be non-visible from the exterior of the vehicle.
The distal end wall 26 of the housing 12 in particular is not flush with or otherwise
form a contiguous or continuous surface with the vehicle, but rather can be hidden
or otherwise enclosed by the vehicle surface or another trim component. In the inactive
position, the cover 98 also hides the supply tube 34 from view.
[0068] The telescoping device 10 can optionally comprise an end cap 106 coupled at the proximal
inlet end 20 of the housing 12. The proximal inlet end 20 of the housing 12 can be
open, with the end cap 106 closing the open inlet end 20. The end cap 106 can include
an inlet port 108 connectable to a source of pressurized cleaning fluid and defining
a fluid passage 110 through the end cap 106. Optionally, the cleaning fluid can be
supplied to the inlet port 108 by a pump (for example, pump 142 in Figure 5) in fluid
communication with a reservoir of cleaning fluid (for example, reservoir 136 in Figure
5). A conduit, hose, duct, and/or other tubing (for example conduit 140 in Figure
5) in fluid communication with the pump can be connected to the inlet port 108. Alternatively,
the inlet port 108 can be formed with, or otherwise provided on, the housing 12.
[0069] A cap sealing member can be provided between the end cap 106 and the housing 12 for
sealing the interface between the end cap 106 and housing 12, and preventing leaks
at the inlet end 20 of the housing 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the cap sealing
member is an O-ring seal 112 on the end cap 106 in sealing engagement with an inner
surface of the peripheral wall 24 of the housing 12. Alternatively, more than one
O-ring seal 112 can be provided. The end cap 106 can include an annular groove 114
shaped to partially receive the O-ring seal 112. The annular groove 114 can be provided
on a collar 116 surrounding the fluid passage 110.
[0070] The end cap 106 can be coupled with or otherwise provided on the housing 12 using
any suitable connection. In one embodiment, end cap 106 can be coupled with the housing
by a quick-connect coupling or a bayonet connection. In the illustrated embodiment,
the end cap 106 has a plurality of bayonet-type hooks 118 that are interfitted into
the spaces between protrusions 120 on the housing 12 so that upon relative rotation
of the end cap 106 and housing 12, the hooks 118 pass over the protrusions 120 to
lock the end cap 106 to the housing 12.
[0071] In the inactive position, as shown in Figure 1, the valve body 54 can abut the end
cap 106. More particularly, a proximal end of the valve body 54 can abut an inner
surface of the end cap 106, for instance a distally facing surface of the collar 116,
with the fluid passage 56 of the valve body 54 in register with the inlet port 108.
In the active position, as shown in Figure 1, the valve body 54 can be spaced from
the end cap 106 by the extension of the piston 14.
[0072] Optionally, the telescoping device 10 can having a heating element (not shown) to
produce a heated spray of cleaning media. The heating element may be placed anywhere
in or adjacent to the flow path through the telescoping device 10 suitable for transferring
heat to the cleaning media flowing through the flow path, such as adjacent to the
supply tube 34 or the cleaning fluid outlet 16. In one example, the heating element
can be a PTC heating element.
[0073] In operation, the piston 14 can be hydraulically actuated by the way of the pressure
of the cleaning fluid supplied to the device 10, which overcomes the pressure of the
return spring 84 acting on the piston 14 and extends the cleaning fluid outlet 16
to the active position once the fluid pressure exceeds the predetermined extension
pressure. The check valve 18 is configured to have a cracking pressure that is greater
than the predetermined extension pressure at which the piston 14 extends to the active
position, and so the check valve 18 remains closed as the piston 14 moves to the extended
position. Once in the extended position, fluid pressure continues to increase, and
once pressure on the upstream side, i.e. the inner side, of the sleeve 52 exceeds
the cracking pressure, the sleeve 52 flexes to the expanded or stressed state, shown
in Figure 2, allowing fluid to flow through the orifices 50 of the valve body 54.
Figure 2 shows the flow of cleaning fluid with arrows. As it is illustrated in Figure
2, the distal end 78 of the sleeve 52 is separated from the sealing surface 64 of
the valve body 54 to unseal the orifices 50, thus, allowing the cleaning fluid to
flow through the orifices 50. The cleaning fluid flows from the orifices 50, through
the supply tube 34, and sprays from the cleaning fluid outlet 16, as indicated by
the arrows in Figure 2.
[0074] Once cleaning fluid supply to the inlet port 108 ceases, the pressure drops and the
sleeve 52 automatically contracts back to its normal condition, i.e. the original
closed position shown in Figure 1, and seals the orifices 50. The sleeve 52 can contract
under its own elasticity. In addition, as pressure decreases, the return spring 84
forces the piston 14 back into the housing 12 to the inactive position shown in Figure
1.
[0075] Figure 4 shows an embodiment of a vehicle 122 comprising at least one telescoping
device 10 described with respect to Figures 1-3. The vehicle 122 can comprise various
vehicle surfaces, some examples of which include a front windshield 124, a rear windshield
126, a camera 128, a sensor 130, and headlights or headlamps 132. One or more telescoping
device 10, can be mounted in various locations on the vehicle 122 to the clean various
vehicle surfaces 124-132. For example, the telescoping device 10 can be hood mounted,
under hood mounted, cowl screen mounted, or wiper arm mounted. In another example,
the telescoping device 10 can be integrated in or mounted on a rear end spoiler or
a center high-mounted stop lamp (CHMSL). It is noted that the telescoping devices
10 are schematically represented in Figure 4, and are not necessarily drawn to scale
relative to the vehicle 122 or the various vehicle surfaces. It is also noted that
the number and location of the telescoping devices 10 for the vehicle 122 can vary
from the illustrated embodiment, and it will be understood by those skilled in the
art that the vehicle 122 can use different numbers of telescoping devices 10 and in
different locations in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. In
addition, although the illustrated embodiment of the vehicle 122 includes one rear
camera 128 and one front sensor 130, it will be understood by those skilled in the
art that the vehicle 122 can use different numbers of cameras and sensors in various
locations on the vehicle 122 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.
[0076] In Figure 4, the telescoping devices 10 are in the inactive position, and the exposed
portion of the device 10 (i.e. the cover 98 of Figure 1) can be flush with or otherwise
form a contiguous or continuous surface with the vehicle 122. In particular, the exposed
portion of the device 10 (i.e. the cover 98 of Figure 1) can be flush with or otherwise
form a contiguous or continuous surface with a Class A surface of the vehicle 122.
In the active position, the cleaning fluid outlet 16 (Figure 1) is extended outwardly
from the vehicle surface and can face the surface to be cleaned, i.e. the front windshield
124, a rear windshield 126, a camera 128, a sensor 130, and headlights or headlamps
132.
[0077] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of a system 134 for cleaning a vehicle surface. The
system 134 of Figure 5 can be incorporated into the vehicle 122 of Figure 4. The system
134 can include at least one fluid supply tank or reservoir 136 storing a supply of
cleaning media 138, at least one telescoping device 10, as described with respect
to Figures 1-3, applying the cleaning media 138 to the vehicle surface, and at least
one conduit 140, hose, duct, and/or other tubing delivering the cleaning media 138
from the reservoir 136 to the telescoping device(s) 10. The system 134 can further
include at least one pump 142 controlling the flow of cleaning media 138 from the
reservoir 136 to the telescoping device(s) 10.
[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, telescoping devices 10 are provided for cleaning the
front windshield 124, the rear windshield 126, the camera 128, the sensor 130, and
the headlights or headlamps 132. Cleaning media 138 from the reservoir 136 is forced
through the conduits 140 by the pump 142 and sprayed onto one or more of the vehicle
surfaces 124-132 by the telescoping devices 10. Operation of the telescoping devices
10 is as described previously, with the piston extending once the fluid pressure exceeds
the predetermined extension pressure, and the check valve 18 opening thereafter once
the fluid pressure exceeds the cracking pressure. The supply of cleaning fluid to
one or more of the telescoping devices 10 can be automated, with cleaning fluid being
supplied automatically predetermined intervals or on an as-needed basis, or can be
manual, such as by providing a switch (not shown) in the vehicle cabin that is manually-actuatable
by a driver of the vehicle.
[0079] The cleaning system 134 can further be provided with one or more fluid control valves
(not shown) to control the flow of cleaning media to the telescoping devices 10, such
as for individual operation of each telescoping device 10, a heating element (not
shown) heating the cleaning media before it is applied to the vehicle surface, and
additional conduits, ducts, tubing, hoses, fluid connectors, and/or manifolds (not
shown) fluidly coupling components of the system 134 together and providing a fluid
flow path from the reservoir 136 to each telescoping device 10. Additionally, the
system, 134 can comprise more than one reservoir and/or more than one pump.
[0080] Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment of the telescoping cleaning device 10. The
embodiment shown can be substantially similar to the embodiment described above with
reference to Figures 1-3, save for the exclusion of the cover 98. Instead, the distal
end wall 26 of the housing 12 can be flush with or otherwise form a contiguous or
continuous surface with an adjacent vehicle surface 144, some non-limiting examples
of which are a body panel, a bumper, a grill, a light, a lens or cover, or a trim
component. In the inactive position (shown), the distal end wall 42 of the supply
tube 34 can also be flush with or otherwise form a contiguous or continuous surface
with the vehicle surface 144. In the active position (not shown), the distal end 36
of the supply tube 34, including the cleaning fluid outlet 16, is extended outwardly
away from the vehicle surface 144. Optionally, one or both of the distal end wall
26 of the housing 12 and the distal end wall 42 of the supply tube 34 can include
a Class A surface, i.e. a visible exterior surface of the vehicle.
[0081] Figure 7 shows another alternative embodiment of the telescoping cleaning device
10. The embodiment shown can be substantially similar to the embodiment described
above with reference to Figures 1-3, save for the relative orientation of the housing
12 and supply tube 34 distal ends, and the exclusion of the cover 98. In the illustrated
embodiment, the supply tube 34 does not retract fully into the housing 12 in the inactive
position (shown). Instead, the distal end 36 of the supply tube 34 remains outside
the housing 12, and more particularly outside the distal end wall 26 of the housing
12. The cleaning fluid outlet 16 can reside within the housing 12 in the inactive
position as shown, and can be projected outside the housing 12 by the movement of
the piston 14 to the active position.
[0082] The supply tube 34 can be extendable and retractable through an opening 146 in a
vehicle surface 148. In the inactive position (shown), the distal end wall 42 of the
supply tube 34 can be flush with or otherwise form a contiguous or continuous surface
with the adjacent vehicle surface 148, some non-limiting examples of which are a body
panel, a bumper, a grill, a light, a lens or cover, or a trim component. In the active
position (not shown), the distal end 36 of the supply tube 34, including the cleaning
fluid outlet 16, is extended outwardly away from the vehicle surface 148. Optionally,
the distal end wall 42 of the supply tube 34 can include a Class A surface, i.e. a
visible exterior surface of the vehicle.
[0083] The housing 12 can be mounted on the interior of the vehicle surface 148, and can
more specifically be mounted against an interior face 150 of the vehicle surface 148
to conserve space and provide a compact device 10. For example, in the illustrated
embodiment, the distal end wall 26 of the housing 12 abuts an interior face 150 of
the vehicle surface 148. In other embodiments, the distal end wall 26 of the housing
12 can be spaced from the interior face 150.
[0084] Directional terms, such as "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower,"
"inner," "inwardly," "outer" and "outwardly," are used to assist in describing the
invention based on the orientation of the embodiments shown in the illustrations.
The use of directional terms should not be interpreted to limit the invention to any
specific orientations.
[0085] The term "proximal" as used herein refers to that end or portion which is situated
toward the point of origin of fluid flow, i.e. toward the source of cleaning fluid
and away from the cleaning fluid outlet 16. In the context of the present disclosure,
the proximal end of the telescoping cleaning device 10 of the illustrated embodiments
includes at least the proximal inlet end 20 of the housing 20, the end cap 106, and/or
the inlet port 108.
[0086] The term "distal" as used herein refers to that end or portion which is situated
away from the point of origin of fluid flow, i.e. toward the cleaning fluid outlet
16 and away from the source of cleaning fluid. In the context of the present disclosure,
the distal end of the telescoping cleaning device 10 of the illustrated embodiments
includes at least the distal outlet end 22 of the housing 20 and/or the distal end
36 of the supply tube 36.
[0087] The terms "connected" or "connect" are used herein in their broadest sense to mean
and encompass the notions of being formed with, mounted or attached to, or otherwise
joined.
[0088] The terms "comprising" or "comprise" are used herein in their broadest sense to mean
and encompass the notions of "including," "include," "consist(ing) essentially of,"
and "consist(ing) of. The use of "for example," "e.g.," "such as," and "including"
to list illustrative examples does not limit to only the listed examples. Thus, "for
example" or "such as" means "for example, but not limited to" or "such as, but not
limited to" and encompasses other similar or equivalent examples. Any reference to
elements in the singular, for example, using the articles "a," "an," "the," or "said,"
is not to be construed as limiting the element to the singular. The term "about" as
used herein serves to reasonably encompass or describe minor variations in numerical
values measured by instrumental analysis or as a result of sample handling. Such minor
variations may be in the order of ±0-25, ±0-10, ±0-5, or ±0-2.5, % of the numerical
values. Further, The term "about" applies to both numerical values when associated
with a range of values. Moreover, the term "about" may apply to numerical values even
when not explicitly stated.
[0089] Generally, as used herein a hyphen "-" or dash "-" in a range of values is "to" or
"through"; a ">" is "above" or "greater-than"; a "≥" is "at least" or "greater-than
or equal to"; a "<" is "below" or "less-than"; and a "≤" is "at most" or "less-than
or equal to."
[0090] The above description relates to general and specific embodiments of the disclosure.
However, various alterations and changes can be made without departing from the appended
claims.
[0091] As such, this disclosure is presented for illustrative purposes and should not be
interpreted as an exhaustive description of all embodiments of the disclosure or to
limit the scope of the claims to the specific elements illustrated or described in
connection with these embodiments.
1. Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) zum Reinigen einer Fahrzeugoberfläche, umfassend:
ein Gehäuse (12) mit einem proximalen Einlassende (20) und einem distalen Auslassende
(22);
einen ausfahrbaren Kolben (14), der innerhalb des Gehäuses (12) angeordnet und mit
einem vorbestimmten Ausfahrdruck von einer inaktiven Position in eine aktive Position
bewegbar ist, wobei der Kolben (14) umfasst:
einen Kolbenkörper (30), der ein hohles Inneres (32) definiert;
ein Zufuhrrohr (34), das mit dem Kolbenkörper (30) an einem proximalen Ende (38) des
Zufuhrrohrs (34) gekoppelt ist;
mindestens einen Reinigungsfluidauslass (16), der an einem distalen Ende (36) des
Zufuhrrohrs (34) bereitgestellt ist, wobei der mindestens eine Reinigungsfluidauslass
(16) in der inaktiven Position in das Gehäuse (12) eingefahren ist und der mindestens
eine Reinigungsfluidauslass (16) aus dem Gehäuse (12) in der aktiven Position ausgefahren
ist; und
ein Rückschlagventil (18), das mit dem Kolbenkörper (30) zur Bewegung damit gekoppelt
ist und einen Öffnungsdruck umfasst, der größer ist als der vorbestimmte Ausfahrdruck;
und
eine Rückstellfeder (84), die den Kolben (14) in Richtung der inaktiven Position vorspannt;
wobei das Rückschlagventil (18) mindestens eine Öffnung (50) in Fluidverbindung mit
dem hohlen Inneren (32) des Kolbenkörpers (30) und eine Elastomerhülse (52) umfasst,
die die mindestens eine Öffnung (50) umgibt;
wobei das Rückschlagventil (18) einen Ventilkörper (54) mit der mindestens einen Öffnung
(50) und die Elastomerhülse (52) über dem Ventilkörper (54) umfasst;
wobei der Ventilkörper (54) mit dem Kolbenkörper (30) zur Bewegung damit gekoppelt
ist;
wobei der Ventilkörper (54) mit einem proximalen Ende (68) des Kolbenkörpers (30)
gekoppelt ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Ventilkörper
eine hohle Spitze (58) umfasst, die in das hohle Innere (32) hineinragt, wobei die
hohle Spitze (58) die mindestens eine Öffnung (50) umfasst und die Elastomerhülse
(52) darauf trägt.
2. Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Elastomerhülse (52) an einem
proximalen Ende (76) davon mit der hohlen Spitze (58) des Ventilkörpers (54) abgedichtet
ist.
3. Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) nach einem der Ansprüche 1 oder 2, wobei die Elastomerhülse
(52) ein mit dem Ventilkörper (54) abgedichtetes proximales Ende und ein mit dem Ventilkörper
(54) nicht abgedichtetes distales Ende (78) aufweist.
4. Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) nach einem der Ansprüche 1-3, wobei das Zufuhrrohr (34)
in das Gehäuse (12) in der inaktiven Position eingefahren ist und wobei das distale
Ende (36) des Zufuhrrohrs (34) im Wesentlichen bündig mit dem distalen Auslassende
(22) des Gehäuses (12) in der inaktiven Position ist.
5. Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) nach Anspruch 4, wobei das distale Auslassende (22) des
Gehäuses (12) teilweise durch eine distale Endwand (26) mit einer Öffnung (28) darin
verschlossen ist, wobei das Zufuhrrohr (34) durch die Öffnung (28) in der distalen
Endwand (26) des Gehäuses (12) ausfahrbar und einfahrbar ist, und das distale Ende
(36) des Zufuhrrohrs (34) durch eine distale Endwand (42) verschlossen ist, und die
distale Endwand (42) des Zufuhrrohrs (34) im Wesentlichen bündig mit der distalen
Endwand (26) des Gehäuses (12) in der inaktiven Position ist.
6. Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) nach einem der Ansprüche 1-5, wobei der Kolbenkörper (30)
und das Zufuhrrohr (34) einstückig ausgebildet sind.
7. Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) nach einem der Ansprüche 1-6, und ferner umfassend eine
Endkappe (106) am proximalen Einlassende (20) des Gehäuses (12), optional wobei die
Endkappe (106) einen Einlassanschluss (108) umfasst, der mit einer Quelle für unter
Druck stehendes Reinigungsmedium fluidmäßig verbindbar ist.
8. Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) nach einem der Ansprüche 1-7, und ferner umfassend eine
Abdeckung (98), die über dem distalen Ende (36) des Zufuhrrohrs (34) angeordnet ist,
optional wobei die Abdeckung (98) eine Klasse-A-Oberfläche eines Fahrzeugs umfasst.
9. Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) nach einem der Ansprüche 1-8, wobei die Rückstellfeder
(84) zwischen dem distalen Auslassende (22) des Gehäuses (12) und dem Kolbenkörper
(30) positioniert ist und das Zufuhrrohr (34) umgibt.
10. Fahrzeug (122), umfassend:
eine Fahrzeugoberfläche (124, 126, 128, 130, 132); und
die Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) nach einem der Ansprüche 1-9.
11. System (134) zum Reinigen einer Fahrzeugoberfläche, umfassend:
einen Fluidvorratsbehälter (136);
eine Pumpe (142) in Fluidverbindung mit dem Fluidvorratsbehälter (136); und
die Teleskopiervorrichtung (10) nach einem der Ansprüche 1-9, wobei das proximale
Einlassende
(20) in Fluidverbindung mit der Pumpe (142) steht.